Where did the magic number “3,000″ come from that determines when we’re supposed to change our motor oil?  For at least 50 years now, that number has been used as the basis for oil changes.  That number didn’t just pop out of nowhere, someone had to suggest that it was logical to change your oil every 3,000 miles.

That was then and this is now.  It isn’t impractical and certainly not unheard of to live a fairly good distance from the workplace these days.  More and more people are moving out of the hustle and bustle of the city seeking solace, in exchange for a long commute to work.  A longer commute means additional miles and more oil consumption.

There’s no more driving on gravel and dirt for the most part.  Today’s daily commute is virtually free of dust in comparison to a couple decades ago.  Dust and dirt raise hell for an engine.  They create a fierce environment for the engine and its oil to operate in.  Since most roads are paved now, the filthy driving conditions are in our rearview mirrors, so to speak, as is the necessity for such frequent oil changes.

It’s funny to reminisce how pumped we got when our engines made it to 70,000 miles.  This is a pretty new advancement, seeming like it was just the 80′s when engine longevity skyrocketed.  The advancements of engine materials and manufacturing tolerances resulted in an increased capacity of extending oil changes, provided the right motor oil is used.

Where is the 3,000 mile oil change now?  Not sure where that 3,000 mile oil change went because I can’t find it any manual to any of my vehicles.  I am seeing a lot of oil bottles that have higher numbers than 3,000 on them.  I’d like to know who could possibly still be spreading that 3,000 mile oil change rumor.

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